🛍️ AI tools for better shopping
Vestiaire Collective, a major player in luxury resale, has introduced AI-powered search tools to enhance its platform. The new search engine uses image pattern recognition alongside keyword searches, making search results more precise and relevant. These tools are part of a broader AI-driven strategy that also includes price recommendations and an image search feature, allowing users to upload photos of items they’re looking for. This tech upgrade follows their B Corp. commitments and aims to offer a smoother customer experience.
🖥️ New tech leadership at Vestiaire
To further drive innovation, Vestiaire named Stacia Carr as its new chief technology and product officer. Carr, who previously held leadership roles at Zalando and SoundCloud, officially started on October 10, 2024. She succeeds former CTO Olaf Zschiedrich. The company also added Jim Freeman, a tech veteran from Amazon, as a new board member. CEO Maximilian Bittner expressed confidence that their combined experience will fuel Vestiaire’s tech-centric growth in the coming years.
🔍 Why AI is a game-changer
According to Vestiaire, the new AI tools are improving customer experiences by enhancing search accuracy. Products found via the “similar items” widget doubled after they introduced visual similarity features. “Sellers often provide limited descriptions, making it harder for customers to find what they want,” explained a company spokesperson. By using AI to overcome these challenges, Vestiaire can offer more relevant item suggestions and streamline the resale process.
♻️ The push for sustainability
Beyond tech advancements, Vestiaire is committed to promoting a circular economy. In May, they joined other resale platforms in campaigning against double taxation on secondhand clothing sales. The company also banned over 60 “fast fashion” brands to reduce environmental harm. The recommerce market continues to grow, with resale projected to hit $291.6B by 2029, making Vestiaire’s tech updates timely in a thriving sector.
How will AI tools change online luxury resale?
